Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: A Crispy, Flavor-Packed Side Dish
Easy Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Bacon – Roasted until crispy, tossed with smoky paprika, and finished with a sweet balsamic glaze. The perfect sweet and savory side dish!
If you're looking for a delicious, easy-to-make side dish, these Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are a game-changer! Roasted until perfectly crispy, tossed with smoky paprika, and finished with tangy balsamic glaze, they’re the perfect blend of savory and sweet. Whether you're making a weeknight dinner or preparing a holiday feast, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Crispy & Flavorful: Roasting at high heat creates irresistible caramelization.
Sweet & Savory Balance: Balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness to complement the salty, smoky bacon.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this dish perfect for busy cooks.
Nutrient-Rich: Brussels sprouts are packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Ingredients Breakdown
Brussels Sprouts (Fresh, finely chopped)
Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and creates a crisp-tender texture.
Smoked Paprika (1 tsp)
Adds a deep, smoky flavor that enhances the roasted Brussels sprouts.
Salt & Pepper (to taste)
Balances and enhances the natural flavors of the dish.
Olive Oil (1 tbsp)
Helps create crispy, golden edges while keeping the sprouts moist inside.
Bacon (5-6 pieces, cooked & chopped)
Adds a rich, salty crunch that pairs perfectly with the Brussels sprouts.
Lemon Juice (½ of a lemon, juiced)
Brightens the dish with a fresh, tangy contrast.
Balsamic Glaze (1 tbsp)
Adds a hint of sweetness and depth of flavor, making the dish absolutely irresistible.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Evenly spread out the chopped Brussels sprouts on the sheet.
2. Season and Roast
Drizzle olive oil over the Brussels sprouts and toss to coat.
Sprinkle with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Toss again to distribute the seasonings evenly.
Roast for 15-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
3. Add the Finishing Touches
Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with chopped bacon.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.
Tips for the Best Brussels Sprouts
Choose Small to Medium Sprouts: They cook more evenly and caramelize better.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: This allows the sprouts to crisp up instead of steaming.
Adjust Cooking Time for Desired Crispiness: Roast longer for extra crispy edges.
Use Thick-Cut Bacon: It holds up well during roasting and adds more crunch.
Try Maple or Honey Instead of Balsamic: For a different sweet contrast, drizzle with a bit of maple syrup or honey.
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Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Ingredients
- Brussels Sprouts (Fresh, finely chopped)
- Smoked Paprika (1 tsp)
- Salt & Pepper (to taste)
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp)
- Bacon (5-6 pieces, cooked & chopped)
- Lemon Juice (½ of a lemon, juiced)
- Balsamic Glaze (1 tbsp)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Evenly spread out the chopped Brussels sprouts on the sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil over the Brussels sprouts and toss to coat.
- Sprinkle with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Toss again to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Roast for 15-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
- Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with chopped bacon.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.
Notes
Tips for the Best Brussels Sprouts
- Choose Small to Medium Sprouts: They cook more evenly and caramelize better.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: This allows the sprouts to crisp up instead of steaming.
- Adjust Cooking Time for Desired Crispiness: Roast longer for extra crispy edges.
- Use Thick-Cut Bacon: It holds up well during roasting and adds more crunch.
- Try Maple or Honey Instead of Balsamic: For a different sweet contrast, drizzle with a bit of maple syrup or honey.
This dish is crispy, savory, and packed with bold flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a holiday meal, it's sure to be a favorite on your table. Enjoy!
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